Washington, In a significant demonstration of political engagement, over 60,000 American Sikhs gathered at the California State Capitol in Sacramento to participate in the second phase of the Khalistan Referendum, a landmark event facilitated by the US-based Sikhs For Justice (SFJ). This follows an equally substantial turnout for the referendum’s first phase, underscoring the vibrant Sikh diaspora’s commitment to advocating for their cause.
According to Kashmir Media Service, this unprecedented mobilization of the Sikh community in the United States is a part of the broader Khalistan movement, which seeks self-determination and the establishment of an independent Sikh state. The event, characterized by stringent security measures including US snipers and police presence, marks a pivotal moment in the diaspora’s ongoing efforts to voice their demands on an international platform.
The referendum, meticulously organized by the Punjab Referendum Commission (PRC), attracted nearly 20,000 participants early on March 31, signaling a robust desire among Sikhs to exercise their democratic rights in support of Khalistan. The occasion was also a tribute to the late Jathedar Gurdev Singh Kaunke, a prominent Sikh figure who was extrajudicially killed by the Indian government in 1993. A ceremony honoring Kaunke’s memory and contributions to the Sikh community was a focal point of the day’s events.
Jathedar Kaunke, who became the head of Sri Akal Takht Sahib in 1986, is remembered for his dedication to Sikh rights and self-determination. The acknowledgment of his martyrdom by the Punjab Human Rights Commission in December 2023 further solidified his legacy as a pivotal figure in the struggle for Sikh autonomy.
Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, General Counsel to SFJ, lauded Kaunke’s enduring legacy and highlighted the ongoing global campaign for Sikh self-determination. Pannun also drew attention to the plight of Sikhs facing persecution, such as UK-based Sikh leader Paramjeet Singh Pamma, underscoring the broader context of the Khalistan movement’s struggle for justice and recognition.
As the Khalistan Referendum prepares for its next phase in Calgary, Canada, on July 28, 2024, the commitment of the Sikh diaspora to their cause remains unwavering. The California event not only commemorates the sacrifices of individuals like Jathedar Gurdev Singh Kaunke but also amplifies the collective voice of Sikhs worldwide seeking self-determination and respect for their rights.